asked Her Majesty's Government:

What steps they are taking to ensure the neutrality of the internet.[HL7315]

The Government's current view is that forcing all network providers to allow data traffic to flow freely without discrimination may not necessarily be the correct one. In a competitive market there is an argument for price and access discrimination which can benefit consumers as long as they are aware of what they are paying for and there are procedures in place allowing them to change service provider if they wish to quickly, easily and cheaply.

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What discussions they have had with telecommunications companies, internet service providers and other interested parties regarding the neutrality of the internet.[HL7316]

The Government have discussed the issue of net neutrality with telecommunications companies, internet service providers and other interested parties via open stakeholder meetings in preparing the UK response to the EU Commission communication on the review of the European regulatory framework for electronic communication and services.

Details about the preparation of the UK input to the review (including notes of meetings) can be found on the DTI website: http://www.dti.gov.uk/sectors/telecoms/2006review/page26449.html

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What discussions they have had with (a) the Government of the United States, and (b) the European Commission regarding the neutrality of the internet.[HL7317]

UK officials have ongoing informal discussions including on network neutrality with US and European Commission officials as well as with counterparts across the EU.

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they have consulted or intend to consult relevant regulatory bodies on the neutrality of the internet.[HL7318]

The Government have discussed the issue of net neutrality with Ofcom in ongoing discussions about the UK response to the EU Commission communication on the review of the European regulatory framework for electronic communication and services.

Details about the preparation of the UK input to the review can be found on the DTI website: http://www.dti.gov.uk/sectors/telecoms/2006review/page26449.html